Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna with Creamy Bechamel Sauce

Beef Lasagna with Cheesy Bechamel Sauce

This classic Beef Lasagna, enhanced with a rich and creamy cheesy bechamel sauce, is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s sure to please a crowd. The recipe features layers of tender lasagna pasta, savory beef Bolognese sauce, and a velvety bechamel sauce topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Here’s how to make this delectable lasagna from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 batch of versatile beef Bolognese sauce (recipe provided separately)

For the Lasagna:

• 6 to 8 sheets of lasagna pasta (cooked until al dente and set aside)
• 200 grams mozzarella cheese (or to taste), shredded

For the Cheesy Bechamel Sauce:

• 1 liter plain UHT milk
• 250 grams cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 100 grams margarine
• 75 grams all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste (cheese saltiness may vary by brand)
• A pinch of ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesy Bechamel Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
2. Add the flour to the melted margarine and stir quickly to create a smooth mixture, free of lumps.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir constantly to ensure the mixture remains smooth.
4. Once the milk is fully incorporated and the sauce has thickened slightly, add the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and a pinch of black pepper to taste.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Lasagna:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Use a 20×30 cm (8×12 inch) baking dish or several aluminum foil pans if you prefer.
3. Spread a layer of lasagna sheets evenly at the bottom of the dish.
4. Spread half of the beef Bolognese sauce over the pasta.
5. Spoon half of the cheesy bechamel sauce over the Bolognese sauce.
6. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese (about a quarter of the total) over the bechamel sauce.

3. Layer and Bake:

1. Repeat the layering process with another layer of lasagna sheets, the remaining Bolognese sauce, and bechamel sauce.
2. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a beautiful, golden finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and bubbly, about 30-40 minutes.
4. Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Enjoy this hearty and satisfying Beef Lasagna as a delicious family meal or for a special occasion. Its combination of flavors and creamy textures makes it a standout dish that will surely become a favorite!